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“Do something that scares you every day. That scares you. Every single day.”
I came across this saying while reading a blog post over at Transient Travels. Although this was not the first time I came across this, something about it hit me this time.
I am a very friendly person but find it hard to take the initiative and go to a networking event alone. There have been many non-profit, social media, marketing, and networking events that I wanted to attend. For some reason or another I am scared at the idea of walking into a room full of unfamiliar faces.
I know, I know, why not go alone? That is the nerve-racking part for me, walking in a room where I don’t know anyone. Yes, I know that once I go to these events I will meet people whom I could possibly establish a relationship and attend future events with. (That doesn’t make it sound any less frightening) Don’t get me wrong I have tried to get over this weird fear. Bizarrely, I only feel this way about networking events. Last summer I joined an internship program in California, flew out not knowing a single soul, and lived there for a couple of months. It turned out to be one of the utmost experiences of my life.
I know that once I get past the awkwardness and meet people I will do perfectly fine. It is the first couple of minutes that scare me. This is where “Do something that scares you every day” comes in. I am ready to get over my fear and stop missing out on great events and the chance to meet great people.
After doing some research I found some good events right here in my hometown. Thursday, June 25th is Young Professionals night at Trinity Brewhouse. I can make some social connections and possibly form great relationships. I guess now that I blogged about it I have to go huh?
Do you do something that scares you every day? Did you ever find yourself attending an event alone? Was it easy/hard?
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Comments
06.24.09
Attending an event alone is always pretty difficult - especially since there is no back up or wingman to save you from the awkward lull of conversation. Having a Battle Buddy is always great because then you don't feel like a loner! Unfortunately, that crutch might also keep you from delving into conversations with potentially great contacts. If you give yourself a comfort zone you're going to want to stay in it.
06.24.09
Just this past Monday night I joined up with a kickball team through the Pittsburgh Sports League who posted on their forumn that they needed an extra girl. I showed up Monday scared to death of not knowing anyone (esp. after more than a few people commented on how they could never do what I was) and you know what? I impressed my new team with a good kick to left field and enjoyed myself for the hour game.
06.24.09
Working in non profit means that walking into a room of strangers is part of the job. For the most part, attending networking events and mingling with people I have never met before is quite common. Scary, sometimes, but for the most part, I think it has helped me to become better at what I do. One trick that I have hoaned is, spot the person that is by themselves in the room and start a conversation with them. More times than none, they will be willing to talk to you, because it is better than standing there alone. When the conversation has dragged on long enough, work the room, and know, that you have someone to return to if your mission fails.
06.24.09
Kathleen- I agree that a buddy may keep me from diving in to conversations. I pretty much have no choice but to talk to someone if I'm alone. :)
Jen- Thats awesome. Glad to see that it turned out great for you. Hopefully I am as successful and enjoy myself.
Sarah- I think that attending events and mingling with people will help me improve this. Actually, it's the only way I can improve this. Thanks for the great tip, will definitely try that.
06.24.09
This is a SUPER timely post for me as I'm going to my first networking event with no friend to accompany me. Going along IS scary. So many thoughts run through your head on if you're being over talkative, not talking enough, not asking the right question, etc. Add the intrinsic worry many of us have about feeling judged and possibly discredited because of our young age just makes for crazy insecurities.
I'm going to go to the networking event tonight, I'll do just fine but you're totally understood when you say it's completely frightening!
Desiree Kane
06.24.09
Desiree- I know exactly what you mean. But your right, you will do just fine. My guess is event after event, you will be a networking pro in no time. I would love to know how it goes tonight. Email me at jennyguerrero (at) gmail (dot) com
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